We’re excited to bring you the first episode of The Elements of Great Teaching podcast series. In each episode alongside Adam Kohlbeck we break down the elements of the Model for Great Teaching, from a learner’s perspective sharing insights and real-world applications to enhance classroom practice.

In this inaugural episode, Adam and I dive into Dimension 1: Understanding the Content, specifically focusing on Element 4: Knowledge of Student Thinking. We discuss why understanding students’ thought processes—their strategies, common misconceptions, and typical sticking points—is crucial for effective teaching. This knowledge helps teachers anticipate where students might struggle and enables them to provide more tailored support, leading to a deeper and more lasting grasp of the content.

By better understanding student thinking, educators can create learning experiences that resonate, ensuring students aren’t just memorising but truly comprehending the material.

Listen below to hear how mastering this element can transform your teaching and help students build a strong foundation for future learning.